Martin McGuinness has revealed a meeting with the Republic's leader over the transferring of policing and powers was constructive.
The Deputy First said he and Taoiseach Brian Cowen both agreed there can be no preconditions on the move during talks on Saturday.
However Mr McGuinness said a date must be agreed before Christmas for the transfer to take place and take effect early in the New Year.
The MP said he also used the hour long meeting in Tullymore County Offaly to raise his concerns over comments by Peter Robinson.
The DUP leader and First Minister recently said he will only agree to a deal on devolution when his party believes there is sufficient public confidence in the move.
He has also sought concessions on the future stewardship of Orange Order parades in Northern Ireland, plus the future of the police reserve and access to personal protection weapons for former security force members.
The transfer of the powers would establish a new Justice Ministry at Stormont.
"What we all want to see now is the necessary leadership to be shown by Peter and for him to step up to the mark and to get this job done," Mr McGuinness said.
© Press Association